TOUCH A HEART NEWSLETTER | JANUARY 28, 2026
Sharing Aloha Across Borders
We're excited to share that volunteer Maiko has officially stepped into a part-time role at Touch A Heart as Business Operations Liaison. Her transition marks a natural next chapter shaped by service, cultural connection, and a strong belief in our mission.
In this role, Maiko supports our relationships with Japanese audiences and partners through outreach, translation, networking, and promoting Baker's Heart at pop-up events—bringing together her skills, cultural knowledge, and passion for service.
Reflecting on the transition, Maiko shared, "After two and a half years of volunteering and building relationships with the staff, the experience helped me to smoothly transition into this new job. I feel more responsibility, but I'm motivated and humbly ready to continue to grow as a team member."
Maiko is especially excited about reaching people beyond Hawaiʻi. "I'm looking forward to expanding the Touch A Heart audience, particularly to the many Hawaiʻi-loving Japanese," she said. By sharing about our employment social enterprises, she hopes to help bring Executive Director Robin's long-held dream closer to reality: a partnership with a similar nonprofit organization in Japan.
Maiko's connection to Touch A Heart began in 2023 when she tasted our Strawberry Dream cookies—sparking curiosity and admiration for our mission and programs. That moment inspired her to get involved and give back to the community she has called home for more than 20 years.
Over time, her appreciation for Touch A Heart has continued to deepen. "When you understand the program, the products are more meaningful and purposeful," she shared. "On top of that, they're delicious. I'd like more Japanese people to learn about these products."
Looking ahead, Maiko hopes to serve as a bridge between communities—connecting Hawaiʻi- and Japan-based nonprofit organizations and creating opportunities for collaboration. We welcome her into this new role and look forward to the impact her work will continue to make.